Jess Zetzman
Jess Zetzman is the director of messaging and content at RWJF where she works to support RWJF’s vision to pave the way to a future where health is no longer a privilege, but a right. Jess has led communications and storytelling for social impact organizations for more than 17 years, crafting national narrative change campaigns, producing a Shorty Impact Award-nominated storytelling series, spearheading award-winning website redesigns, and leading marketing for a bestselling book. She enjoys serving as the chair of FRESHFARM, constructing crosswords with her husband, and chasing after their two kids and energetic pitbull.
Presentations from Facing Race 2024
A Narrative Framework for Health Equity
Join us for an engaging workshop where we’ll introduce the "Health Equity Narrative House," a powerful narrative change tool designed to foster a healthier, fairer, and more just society. Inspired by bell hooks’ words, “Choosing love, we also choose to live in community, and that means that we do not have to change by ourselves. We can change together,” this workshop will explore how collective efforts can drive meaningful change.
In September 2023, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) launched the Health Equity Narrative Lab (HEN Lab) with 29 diverse participants, including practitioners, strategists, organizers, artists, and funders. Together, they identified the narrative barriers to health equity and co-created the “Health Equity Narrative House.” This framework highlights the interconnected nature of these barriers and the need for a unified strategy to overcome them.
Throughout the HEN Lab, it became clear that a strong, cohesive movement for health equity is essential. This movement must be driven by clear goals and visions from those actively involved. Transforming narratives requires a multifaceted approach: building power, using art and stories, sharing content widely, and continuously welcoming new members into the movement.
We are excited to share the Health Equity Narrative House with you. This tool will be invaluable for advocates, storytellers, and strategists, helping to unify and amplify the voices dedicated to health equity. Join us to learn how you can contribute to and benefit from this transformative narrative framework.
Speakers: Jess Zetzman, Trevor Smith, Jane Mantey, PhD